Whether you are an office worker or on the tools, building your team is crucial to your success. We have all heard the saying there is no ‘i’ in team, but you do have to put yourself into the picture. As a leader, your role is to support and strengthen your team, helping them be the best they can be. 

According to research by Deloitte, 85 per cent of HR professionals interviewed in Australia said creating a positive employee experience is a top priority for better employee engagement. 

In the same study, 84 per cent of respondents said building an organisation of the future is just as critical. In other words, when employees really care for and feel a sense of ownership about their company, they are engaged and productive. 

So, what does it take to motivate your team and increase their performance in the workplace? HOUSING speaks to Laura Regan, HIA Executive Director – People & Culture, about her thoughts when it comes to building your dream team.

Get to know your crew

It may seem obvious, but really getting to know each person in your team might just be the most important step you can take as a manager or business owner, says Laura. 
‘Take time to ask about who they are – the more you know about the individuals, the more you can find what motivates them and build cohesion,’ she explains. ‘When your team feels that you take a genuine interest in them as a person, you win their trust and loyalty – which is valuable in today’s working world.’ 

Train for tomorrow

The world is shifting rapidly; technology and techniques are advancing in every industry – including building and construction. To keep ahead of the game, Laura believes you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of providing your employees with high-quality learning and development.

‘The opportunity to expand employee skills not only benefits your business and clients, but it’s also a way to enhance the overall work experience for your employees,’ she says. ‘To retain your key employees, you must be willing to invest in your employees.’ 

Values and validation 

When it comes to employee engagement, one of the best strategies you can use to encourage commitment is to define your organisation’s values and bring your people along for the ride. 

Laura says a way to achieve this is by team-building exercises. ‘Ask staff to brainstorm what your business stands for and what values your employees should embody – then ask staff to compare against their own strengths and abilities,’ she says. 

‘When employees buy into the organisational values, it’s a chance to share the same purpose and come together. Teamwork is all about collaboration, working together to meet mutual goals and this is a great place to start.’

Define expectations

You can’t expect your team to perform at their best if they don’t know what is expected of them. However, by setting clear roles and explaining the communication channels, you will give your team the confidence to take ownership, overcome challenges and efficiently problem-solve. 

‘Don’t forget to be really specific with goals, performance objectives and set regular check-ins and reviews. This will give your team an understanding of what they need to achieve and how it is measured and accomplished.’ 

Listen without prejudice

Improving isn’t just something your team must do; it is something we must embrace as leaders as well. One of the keys to becoming a successful team leader is to actively listen to your team members. Laura adds it is important to ask your team for feedback and their observations, and in return communicate business goals and objectives. 

‘If your team have concerns, make sure they feel heard and understood,’ she says. ‘Communicate how you will act upon it, and then, most importantly, follow through. Building strong internal communications is just as important as forming the team itself.’

Prioritise wellbeing 

If the past year has taught us anything, it’s how vital health and wellbeing (both physical and mental) is – especially for employees. Showing that your organisation really cares for your employees’ health can be a powerful way to foster and support your team. 

‘If you haven’t implemented a wellness program within your organisation, this year could be a great time to consider starting one,’ Laura says. 

Step away from the day-to-day

It is hard to make a connection if it’s all work and no play. Team building is not just games and sweet treats; they have the power to bring people together.

‘Take your team out of their normal operating environment, find out what they like to do in their leisure time, form a sporting team or just carve out some time to relax and unwind together. Having a team lunch or activity away from the daily grind can assist with forming bonds and positive relationships.’ 

For more advice on best business practices, visit HIA Workplace Services.